What is the KNM exam?
The KNM exam (Kennis van de Nederlandse Maatschappij — Knowledge of Dutch Society) is a compulsory part of the integration exam in the Netherlands. It tests whether you know enough about how Dutch society works. From working and housing to healthcare and your rights as a resident.
The KNM exam is meant for all adults who are doing inburgering (civic integration) in the Netherlands. You take it at DUO (Dienst Uitvoering Onderwijs, the Dutch education executive agency) in an official exam centre. Without this exam you cannot get your integration diploma.
Important: The KNM exam is part of the inburgering programme under the Wet inburgering 2021 (Civic Integration Act 2021). The exact rules and requirements can differ from one situation to another. Always check DUO.nl for the most up-to-date information.
How is the KNM exam built up in 2026?
The KNM exam consists of 40 multiple-choice questions. Every question has three possible answers: A, B or C. You always choose one answer. There are no open questions.
| Number of questions | 40 multiple-choice questions (A/B/C) |
| Duration | 45 minutes |
| Pass mark | At least 28 out of 45 correct (70%) |
| Language | Dutch (with audio support) |
| Exam location | Official DUO exam centre |
| Costs | Depends on your inburgering pathway |
Which topics come up in the KNM exam?
The KNM exam covers five big themes. Each theme contains several questions about situations from daily life in the Netherlands:
Work & Income — employment contracts, unemployment benefit (WW), UWV, payslips, calling in sick, pensions
Housing & Living Together — rental rules, the gemeente (municipality), neighbourhoods, BRP, municipal services
Health & Care — family doctor, pharmacy, emergency care, health insurance
Rights & Duties — voting rights, police, court, discrimination, taxes
Education & Free Time — schools, childcare, libraries, sport and culture
The questions are always based on realistic situations. For example, you may be asked what you do if you are sick on your first day at work, or which telephone number you call in an emergency.
How do you pass the KNM exam?
To pass, you have to answer at least 28 of the 40 questions correctly. That is 70%. In practice we advise you to practise until you reach at least 75-80%. Then you have a comfortable margin.
The best way to practise is with real exam questions in the right format. Read the explanation after every question, even when your answer was correct. Understanding is more important than learning by heart.
The 3 most common mistakes in the KNM exam
Practising too little with the multiple-choice format — the exam asks for quick decisions
Focusing on facts (names, dates) instead of understanding in a situational way how the Netherlands works
Underestimating the themes Work & Income and Rights & Duties — these are the hardest parts
Tip from Marieke: Practise 20 minutes every day. Being consistent works better than studying once for a long time. Use our 20 free KNM practice questions to prepare in the real format.
How often can you take the KNM exam?
You may take the KNM exam several times. However, there are costs linked to each exam moment. Check the current rules and reimbursements with DUO.nl or through your inburgering provider.
If you do not pass the exam, you can apply for a resit. There is a waiting time between attempts. Your inburgering provider or case manager can advise you on the best moment for a resit.
Frequently asked questions about the KNM exam 2026
Has the KNM exam changed in 2026?
The KNM exam itself has not changed radically in 2026. The format (40 questions, 45 minutes, 70% pass mark) has stayed the same. The Wet inburgering 2021 still applies. There can be small adjustments in the content or the support you get. Check DUO.nl for current information.
Do I have to take the KNM exam if I already speak Dutch?
That depends on your integration obligation. Not everyone is obliged to do inburgering. Check IND.nl or DUO for your personal situation.
What happens if I do not pass the KNM exam?
If you do not pass the KNM exam, you can take a resit. Make sure you understand the cause of your mistakes and practise extra on those themes. Our free practice questions help you with this.